In Taiwan, the first wave of recall cases did not pass, with all of them failing to garner enough support. Cao Xingcheng, one of the leaders of the recall movement and founder of United Microelectronics Corporation, pointed out that the recall results were not as expected, citing two main reasons.
Civil groups in Taiwan launched a large-scale recall movement against the controversial parliamentary expansion bill led by the blue and white legislators, criticizing it as “destroying the constitution and disregarding public opinion.” The initial recall votes today targeted 24 Kuomintang legislators, as well as the suspended mayor of Hsinchu City, Gao Hong-an, all of which did not pass.
Cao Xingcheng stated that the main reason for the unexpected recall results was due to the extent of the Chinese Communist Party’s long-term penetration, united front tactics, and division in Taiwan, which was larger than imagined. Another reason was the formidable mobilization efforts in predominantly blue-leaning districts, where the recall volunteers could not compete with the base of the blue camp when voter turnout was high.
Although the recall did not succeed this time, Cao Xingcheng emphasized that they had managed to advance the recall to the second stage with a 31-0 result, which was considered a remarkable achievement. He also expressed satisfaction with the disciplined and peaceful manner in which the recall volunteers conducted themselves throughout the process, radiating positive energy of patriotism and community love, bringing warmth and strength to Taiwanese society. In contrast, opponents resorted to hatred-driven tactics, defaming, spreading rumors, insulting, threatening, and even resorting to violence and false accusations against the recall group, which was regrettable.
Cao Xingcheng highlighted that while the recall may not have succeeded, it sent a strong message to the blue and white legislators. They firmly opposed the rough passage of legislation through the destruction of due process using majority violence. This would rapidly undermine Taiwan’s rule of law, plunging the nation into chaos. The motivation behind the recall was to uphold righteousness and justice.
He emphasized that according to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the United Nations, governmental power should derive from the authorization of the people, and the government’s duty is to safeguard the life, property, and freedom of the people from infringement. The declaration also advocates for sovereignty belonging to the people, thereby asserting that Taiwan’s sovereignty solely belongs to the Taiwanese people, and China’s unification intentions are viewed as aggression against Taiwan.
Cao Xingcheng asserted that their belief is that any government public servant, including all legislators, has a primary responsibility to uphold the aforementioned righteousness. Failing to wholeheartedly uphold righteousness equates to injustice and disqualifies individuals from holding public office in Taiwan.
Upholding righteousness and justice is the fundamental value of being human, according to Cao Xingcheng. It is a lifelong goal that transcends success or failure. Even though the recall did not succeed today, there is no need to be discouraged. As long as one perseveres in upholding righteousness and justice, one has already succeeded in being a decent human being.
Cao Xingcheng expressed that those who endure pain do not have the right to be pessimistic. Enduring painful blows is the fate of the Taiwanese people, but not fearing these challenges and bravely moving forward is their mission.
He proclaimed, “We believe that Taiwan, with us, will one day break free from the entanglement of the Chinese Communist Party, which disregards righteousness and justice, making Taiwan a land of freedom and courage forever.”